Homer is a popular base for flightseeing trips and bear-viewing flights to coastal Katmai National Park in the summer, primarily the stretch between Geographic Harbor and Swikshak Lagoon (some trips go to Lake Clark National Park).

All-day trips cost around $550–625 per person and are offered late May–mid-September. Call ahead for reservations during July-August, but walk-ins may be available one day before.

Operated by lifelong Alaskans Gary and Jeanne Porter, Bald Mountain Air Service (907/235-7969 or 800/478-7969, www.baldmountainair.com) is a long-established company with a fine reputation.

Another company, Emerald Air Service, (www.emeraldairservice.com), may also be offering bear viewing trips. Book your midsummer trip in January or February to be assured of a space.

Jose de Creeft of Northwind Aviation (907/235-7482, www.northwindak.com)—one of the best bush pilots around—offers flightseeing and trips to Brooks River or McNeil.

Hallo Bay Bear Lodge (907/235-2237, www.hallobay.com) is a unique camp setting in the heart of Katmai National Park, described in the Southwest Alaska chapter but accessed by Homer air taxis.

Smokey Bay Air (907/235-1511 or 888/482-1511, www.smokeybayair.com) takes guests bear-viewing at Hallo Bay in Katmai or Homestead Lodge in Lake Clark National Park.

Maritime Helicopters (907/235-7771, www.maritimehelicopters.com) guides eagle-eye tours of the region’s glaciers, islands, and mountains on a charter basis.